African-American student hazed with noose

Wynne, AR (WMC/CNN) - Officials in an Arkansas school district are investigating some serious allegations.

An African-American football player reportedly had a noose put around his neck by white teammates.

Many folks are frowning in the "City with a smile" after hearing news of possibly racially-charged hazing involving members of the Wynne High School's junior varsity football team.

"There was an incident in the ninth grade locker room," said Superintendent Carl Easley. "Two students are being recommended for expulsion and five have been suspended from school."

Easley is not allowed to release details of the incident until a hearing is held, but family and friends of a 14-yaer-old African-American player claim white students tied a noose around his neck before practice last Monday.

"We love Wynne, it's a good school system. And sometimes we just mess up," said parent Benita South.

Black and white parents alike are equally outraged, although some were hesitant about being identified.

Wynne police interviewed 30 or so students in the locker room at the time of the incident, but they determined punishment should be handled by the school district.

In addition to the students who are in trouble, the superintendent said staff members may be disciplined as well for not properly supervising them.

"Kids at no time should be left unsupervised and we're gonna have to revisit how we supervise students," said Easley.

The school board will make a final decision about the expulsions, which man leave a lasting impression on the football players.